I write these posts because it’s the best way I know of getting my head around what makes these pieces of art that we love and appreciate work so well. I realise that it can come across as academic and dry to others, but I’m so glad you’ve found value in them.

There’s definitely more to be said on the Sgt Peppers album – so much more – so I’m steeling myself up for a counter to your last response!

The thing that strikes me about this website is that whatever you talk about seems to me to then become incredibly interesting. This classical music thing is an unbelievable shock to me. Believe me.

When I first read your postings on Dylan and then ‘Yesterday’ by The Beatles my initial reaction was that the commentary was very dry, very Michael Gray in that it’s very learned but doesn’t necessarily tell you why that music is good or even great.

I then read the posts again. Properly. And thought my initial response was wrong. It’s obvious which writers on Dylan you love but you’re not shackled by them…

I will buy the ‘Ner – perhaps because of the immensity of it to a newcomer, perhaps because Bukowski loved him – and when I do I’ll get back to you.

P.S. I did try to keep the Sergeant Peppers debate going too…

For a great Tristan recording, I can personally recommend Antonio Pappano conducting the Chorus and Orchestra of the Royal Opera House Covent Garden, on EMI, with Placido Domingo playing Tristan – buy it at Amazon UK here: http://tinyurl.com/4pt3vk.

Also consider a recording that I haven’t yet heard but that is highly recommended by others, including the Penguin Guide to Classical Recordings, the 1966 live recording by Karl Bohm with the Bayreuth Festival Orchestra and Chorus – at Amazon here: http://tinyurl.com/3lbsop. It’s on my wish list!

If you want to see it performed, I recommend the DVD of a performance by James Levine and the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra and Chorus – http://tinyurl.com/4l63lp.

Good luck with Tristan!